Lighting Industry Leader | Entrepreneur | Values-Driven Business Coach
Matt Hyden began his journey in the lighting industry in 1998, hanging Christmas lights seasonally while working in the restaurant industry. In 2006, he launched a marketing company that rapidly scaled to over $6.5 million in revenue and 500 employees. When the 2008 market crash hit, the business collapsed — a turning point that reshaped his approach to entrepreneurship.
Since then, Matt has returned to lighting with a renewed purpose, founding We Sell Christmas Lights, Celebration Holiday Studio, and CLIPA, each focused on raising the standard in the holiday lighting industry. He recently launched Illuminate 360, aiming to bring that same excellence to the landscape lighting market.
Today, Matt mentors other entrepreneurs, helping them build sustainable, values-driven businesses rooted in integrity, accountability, and excellence — the same principles that turned his setbacks into lasting success.
Through dedication and hard work, our marketing company flourished, achieving an impressive $6.5 Million in its second year of operation. However, fate had other plans, and in 2008, the building industry faced a significant challenge. Faced with a tough decision, I embraced the challenge and persevered.
After selling the marketing company, I returned to my genuine passion – Christmas Lights. Since then, I have specialized in commercial installations across California and have had the privilege of mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs eager to enter the industry. My journey has been shaped by determination, adaptability, and a commitment to embracing the opportunities that come my way.